Peppermint Christmas Fudge

Peppermint Christmas Fudge

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Craving something sweet, festive, and unbelievably easy to make? This Peppermint Christmas Fudge might just be your new holiday obsession. It blends creamy white chocolate with the refreshing crunch of peppermint candy, all wrapped in a gorgeous red swirl that makes every square feel like a little edible present.

This no-bake treat is a hit for cookie swaps, homemade gifts, or any time you need a quick dessert that looks like you spent hours on it. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a tray of glossy, peppermint-kissed fudge ready to chill in no time.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating this festive fudge doesn’t require fancy kitchen gadgets, but having the right basics will ensure a smooth process and perfect results:

  • 8×8 Baking Pan: This size gives you the perfect thickness for easy-to-cut fudge squares.
  • Parchment Paper: Helps lift out the fudge cleanly and prevents sticking.
  • Microwave-Safe Bowl: Since we’re using white chocolate chips, melting them evenly is crucial. A heat-safe bowl makes this simple.
  • Rubber Spatula: Ideal for stirring in the peppermint and smoothing the top of the fudge.
  • Toothpick or Skewer: For swirling in the red food coloring to create that signature marbled effect.

Each of these tools plays a key role in either the texture or the visual finish of the fudge. With your ingredients ready and these essentials nearby, you’ll breeze through the prep and end up with a batch that looks bakery-perfect.


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Ingredients for the Peppermint Christmas Fudge

  • White Chocolate Chips: The creamy base of this fudge, white chocolate offers the perfect canvas for peppermint flavor and color swirling.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Essential for giving the fudge its rich, smooth texture and helping it set properly.
  • Peppermint Extract: A few drops go a long way in infusing the entire batch with refreshing, candy cane-like flavor.
  • Crushed Peppermint Candies: These add a delightful crunch and enhance the visual appeal.
  • Red Food Coloring: Swirled into the top layer to create that signature holiday marbled look.

How To Make the Peppermint Christmas Fudge

Step 1: Melt the Base

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each round, until smooth and fully melted.

Step 2: Add the Peppermint Flavor

Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract. Mix well so the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Pour and Swirl

Line your 8×8 pan with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the pan and smooth it out with a rubber spatula. Quickly add drops of red food coloring to the top and use a toothpick to swirl it into a festive pattern.

Step 4: Top with Peppermint Crunch

Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly over the top while the fudge is still soft. Press them in gently with your hands or a spatula so they stick.

Step 5: Chill to Set

Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm. Once set, lift it out of the pan and cut into small squares.


How to Serve and Store This Festive Fudge

Once your Peppermint Christmas Fudge is set and sliced, it’s ready to dazzle! Serve it on a holiday platter alongside cookies and other sweets for a striking color contrast. It’s also perfect as part of a dessert table spread or tucked into small gift boxes for edible presents.

For storing, keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you prefer a softer texture, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. For longer storage, freeze it in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months.


Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the fudge take to set?

Usually about 2 hours in the fridge, but overnight chilling ensures the cleanest cuts.

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Yes, but it’s much more concentrated. Start with just a drop and taste before adding more.

Do I have to use red food coloring?

Nope! It’s purely decorative. You can skip it or use green for a different holiday look.

Can I use a different chocolate base?

Absolutely. Milk or dark chocolate will change the flavor profile but still work beautifully.

Will the peppermint candies melt into the fudge?

If added while the fudge is hot, they may slightly dissolve. Pressing them in gently once poured helps retain their crunch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! This fudge stores wonderfully and actually slices better when made a day ahead.


Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If you loved this Peppermint Christmas Fudge, there are more festive treats waiting for you! For a similarly no-fuss bake, the No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies offer creamy sweetness in individual portions. Or dive into another nostalgic classic with the Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars — light, tangy, and great for gatherings.

Feeling chocolatey? The Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes bring gooey marshmallow centers to the holiday table. And for something charmingly old-fashioned, try the Cinnamon Donut Bread — it’s a spiced, sugary loaf that pairs beautifully with warm drinks.

For bite-sized elegance, I’d recommend the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries — easy to prep, delightful to serve.


Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your holiday dessert board for later. Just click the Pin button or visit my Pinterest here where I share daily sweet ideas on LadyPlate.

If you try this Peppermint Christmas Fudge, I want to know! Did you go heavy on the swirl? Use white chocolate bars instead? Leave a comment and share how yours turned out — I love seeing your holiday spins on it.


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Peppermint Christmas Fudge

Peppermint Christmas Fudge


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  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 25 squares
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Peppermint Christmas Fudge is a creamy, no-bake holiday treat with a festive swirl and a refreshing peppermint crunch. Made with white chocolate, crushed peppermint candies, and a marbled red top, it’s perfect for gifting or sharing at seasonal gatherings. Quick to prepare and easy to store, this fudge is both beautiful and delicious.


Ingredients

2 ½ cups white chocolate chips

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

½ teaspoon peppermint extract

¼ cup crushed peppermint candies

Red food coloring (about 4–6 drops)


Instructions

1. Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.

3. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.

4. Stir in peppermint extract and mix until fully incorporated.

5. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

6. Drop a few drops of red food coloring on the surface and swirl with a toothpick.

7. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies evenly on top and press gently.

8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm.

9. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and slice into squares.

10. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

For extra festive flair, try mixing in green food coloring alongside red for a holiday twist.

Always press peppermint pieces gently into the fudge while it’s still warm to ensure they stick.

For best slicing, chill the fudge overnight and use a sharp, warm knife.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 145
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 35mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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